Modern Minorities

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EP 176: Alice Hsu’s (embracing) Canton identity

Modern Minorities

“I knew I looked different, but didn't really notice it until kids started pointing it out. It was time for me to be proud of who I am. If you can't embrace who you are, how can you embrace others?”

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Sharon’s good friend, Alice Hsu, has been on our podcast twice in the past, but this is the first time we’re focusing the discussion on her. Alice grew up in Canton, Michigan where she was one of the only Taiwanese kids in her area. Her first-generation story is similar to many of our previous guests, but unique in that we’ve only known Alice for who she is today: a bold, passionate Asian-American woman who is proud of her culture and heritage.

In our discussion, we dive deeper into stories that led to Alice becoming… well, Alice. We talk about how food was a way for Alice to connect with others and those around her as she learned to embrace her roots, while also being the source of bullying and a defining factor for social acceptance - “home lunch” of boiled tea eggs and steamed buns was alienating, whereas Lunchables were okay, who can relate?

From reminiscing about life in our early twenties sharing a 1-bedroom apartment in NYC among four roommates to talking about the types of men that Alice’s dad thinks would make for a great husband, this conversation was super fun and eye-opening for Sharon. We wish that we had time to truly get to know all of our friends in this way. We are so glad that we had a chance to spend quality time with an old friend and know that you’ll enjoy reconnecting with Alice too.

Note: You’ve heard Alice on our panel discussion about education and for the very first Lunar New Year episode from season 1. Links below to listen again.

LEARN ABOUT ALICE

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